This Easy Authentic Greek Chicken Souvlaki is a fast and tasty dish that’s perfect for any night. Juicy chicken is marinated with herbs and spices, then grilled to perfection!
Pair it with warm pita and some fresh veggies, and you’ve got a meal that feels like a mini vacation to Greece. Yum! I love how quick it comes together—perfect for busy evenings!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken: I prefer using chicken thighs for their juiciness, but chicken breasts work well too. If you’re looking for a lighter option, you can substitute with firm tofu for a vegetarian version.
Olive Oil: Extra virgin olive oil adds rich flavor. If you need a substitute, avocado oil or any neutral-flavored cooking oil will do, though they lack the same depth of taste.
Herbs: Dried oregano is key for authentic flavor. If you’re out, Italian seasoning or a mix of dried basil and thyme can work in a pinch. Fresh herbs would also bring a vibrant taste if available!
Lemon Juice: Freshly squeezed lemon is best for brightness. If you’re short on lemons, a bit of vinegar can add acidity but will change the flavor slightly.
How Do I Make Sure My Chicken Is Tender and Flavorful?
The secret to tender and flavorful chicken lies in the marinating step. Marinate your chicken for at least one hour, but if you can, let it sit for 2-3 hours. This allows the chicken to soak in all the herb and lemon flavors.
- Mix the marinade well and make sure the chicken is fully coated.
- Use a zip-top bag for marinating if you want an easier cleanup.
When you’re ready to grill, ensure your grill is preheated for even cooking. Don’t overcrowd the skewers, as this helps achieve that lovely char!
Easy Authentic Greek Chicken Souvlaki
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Chicken Souvlaki:
- 2 pounds (900g) boneless, skinless chicken breast or thighs, cut into 1-inch cubes
- 1/4 cup (60ml) extra virgin olive oil
- Juice of 1 lemon
- 3 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 tbsp dried oregano (preferably Greek oregano)
- 1 tsp dried thyme
- 1 tsp dried rosemary, crushed
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1/2 tsp freshly ground black pepper
- Fresh parsley, finely chopped, for garnish
- Wooden or metal skewers (if wooden, soak in water for 30 minutes before using)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe requires about 15 minutes of prep time plus a marinating time of at least 1 hour (or up to 3 hours for the best flavor). After that, grilling takes approximately 12 minutes. So in total, allow about 1 hour and 30 minutes to enjoy delicious Greek Chicken Souvlaki!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Making the Marinade:
In a large bowl, whisk together the olive oil, lemon juice, minced garlic, oregano, thyme, rosemary, salt, and pepper. This delicious marinade is essential for flavoring the chicken.
2. Marinating the Chicken:
Add the cubed chicken to the marinade, tossing well to ensure each piece is coated. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap or transfer the contents to a zip-top bag. Refrigerate for at least 1 hour, but if time permits, letting it sit for 2-3 hours will give you even better flavor.
3. Prepping the Grill:
While the chicken is marinating, preheat your grill or grill pan to medium-high heat. This step is crucial for achieving those perfect grill marks!
4. Skewering the Chicken:
Once the chicken has marinated, thread the pieces onto the skewers. Make sure to leave a little space between each piece to ensure they cook evenly.
5. Grilling the Souvlaki:
Place the skewers on the grill. Cook for about 10-12 minutes, turning them every few minutes until the chicken is fully cooked and has nice grill marks and slight char on the edges.
6. Resting the Chicken:
After grilling, remove the skewers from the grill and let them rest for a few minutes. This gives the juices a chance to redistribute throughout the meat, keeping your chicken juicy!
7. Serving Time:
Garnish your skewers with fresh parsley and serve with warm pita bread, lemon wedges, sliced red onions, and your favorite Greek sides like tzatziki or a fresh salad. Enjoy your delicious Greek Chicken Souvlaki!
Dig in and relish the flavors of Greece with every bite!
FAQ for Easy Authentic Greek Chicken Souvlaki
Can I Use Other Proteins?
Absolutely! While chicken is traditional, you can use pork, lamb, or even shrimp for delicious variations. Just adjust the cooking time accordingly—shrimp cooks much faster, while pork might need a bit longer depending on the cut.
How Long Can I Marinate the Chicken?
You can marinate the chicken for up to 3 hours; however, if you’re short on time, even 1 hour will work. Avoid marinating it for more than 6 hours, as the acidity from the lemon juice can start to break down the chicken too much, affecting its texture.
What Should I Do with Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. You can reheat it in the microwave or enjoy it cold in a salad or wrap. Just add a little drizzle of olive oil or tzatziki sauce to keep it moist!
Can I Grill Souvlaki Indoors?
Yes! If you don’t have an outdoor grill, you can use a grill pan on your stovetop. Preheat it on medium-high heat and follow the same grilling instructions. Just keep an eye on it to prevent burning and ensure even cooking.
